How Are Dry Eyes Diagnosed and Treated?

How Are Dry Eyes Diagnosed and Treated?

Dry eyes are more than just an occasional inconvenience. They can lead to persistent discomfort, blurry vision, and even damage to the eye's surface if left untreated. Prescott Valley Eye Care is here to explain how dry eyes are diagnosed and what treatment options are available to help you find lasting relief.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for clear vision and eye health, providing moisture, lubrication, and protection. Common symptoms of dry eye include redness, a gritty or sandy sensation, sensitivity to light, and a feeling of having something in the eye. These symptoms can be influenced by various factors, such as screen time, age, certain medications, environmental conditions, meibomian gland dysfunction, or medical conditions like autoimmune diseases.

Diagnosing Dry Eyes

To properly diagnose dry eye syndrome, a comprehensive eye examination is essential. Here’s what you can expect during a dry eye evaluation:

•          Patient History: Your eye care provider will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and any existing health conditions that might be contributing to dry eyes.

•          Tear Film Analysis: Using specialized tools, your doctor can assess the quality and stability of your tear film. This includes checking for rapid tear evaporation and poor tear quality, both of which can indicate dry eye syndrome.

•          Tear Production Test (Schirmer Test): This test measures the amount of tear production by placing a small strip of paper under the lower eyelid. This test helps determine if your eyes produce enough tears to keep the surface moist.

•          Meibomian Gland Evaluation: The meibomian glands, located in the eyelids, produce oils that prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. If these glands are blocked or dysfunctional, it can lead to dry eyes. Your doctor may examine the health of these glands to determine if they are contributing to your dry eye symptoms.

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes

Once diagnosed, there are various treatment options available, depending on the severity and underlying cause of your dry eye. Some of the most effective treatments include:

•          Artificial Tears and Eye Drops: Over-the-counter artificial tears are often the first line of defense for mild dry eyes, providing temporary moisture and relief. For chronic cases, your eye doctor may recommend prescription eye drops which target inflammation and increase tear production.

•          Lifestyle Modifications: Making small changes in your daily habits can make a big difference. These may include reducing screen time, wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect against wind and sun, using a humidifier, or taking regular breaks during prolonged tasks.

•          Punctal Plugs: Punctal plugs are tiny devices that can be inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage, helping to keep your eyes moist by allowing tears to stay on the surface longer.

•          Meibomian Gland Expression and Thermal Treatments: For patients with meibomian gland dysfunction, in-office treatments like LipiFlow® or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy can help unclog these glands, improving tear stability and reducing dry eye symptoms.

•          Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve tear quality. Your eye doctor may recommend adding omega-3 supplements to your diet to help manage dry eye symptoms.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Prescott Valley Eye Care Today

While dry eye syndrome can be challenging, it’s manageable with the right approach. Routine eye exams, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and following your doctor’s recommendations can help prevent dry eye symptoms from worsening. Prescott Valley Eye Care is dedicated to finding the most effective treatment plan to provide you with relief and improve your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, schedule a comprehensive dry eye evaluation with Prescott Valley Eye Care for a personalized treatment plan to help you see and feel your best. Visit our office in Prescott Valley, Arizona, or call (928) 218-2020 to book an appointment today.